The value of CTA and MRA in the diagnosis of carotid body tumors

Objective:To study the value of CTA and MRA in the diagnosis of carotid body tumors.Methods:14 cases of CBT were verified by pathology,10 unilateral cases and 4 bilateral cases.The radiological image manifestations of CBT were analyzed retrospectively.Results:Each imaging examination was able to locate and highlight the physical shape of CBT.The specific sonogram of CBT was isoechoic or hypoechoic solid lesion,small tubular areas could be seen in masses measured over 3 cm in diameter,but the upper borderline of the tumor appeared indistinctive.14 cases were examined by helical CT enhancement,which reflected the vascular nature of CBT,in 12 cases the tumor could not be distinguished from the internal and the external carotid arteries because they were evenly enhanced and 2 cases were unevenly enhanced.The values of CT was 150～180 HU.The correct rate for preoperatiove diagnosis was 100%(14/14).11 cases were examined with MRI and MRA.MRI imaging of CBT featured flow-void tumor vessels,and internal and external carotid arteries attached to or embedded respectively in the rear and the front of the external side of masses.MRA showed clearly the distinction between CBT and common carotid arteries and their branches.The rate of correct diagnosis was 100%(11/11).Conclusion:CTA and MRA are valuable and specific in diagnosis of CBT.There are no significant statistics difference in 2 kinds of imaging diagnostic methods.